NHS workforce race equality standard. 2016 Data analysis report for NHS Trusts

Almost one in five of the staff working in the NHS is from a black and minority ethnic (BME) background, yet we now know that the treatment and opportunities that they get in the workplace often do not correspond with the values that the NHS represents. We also know that this has significant adverse impacts on the effective and efficient running of the NHS, including on the quality of care received by all patients. It was in response to this evidence that the Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES) was mandated across the NHS in April 2015. Since its introduction, the WRES has required healthcare providers to self-assess on this agenda and to understand the specific challenges they face in ensuring all staff are treated equally and are supported to fulfil their full potential. This is the second WRES annual data report and the most comprehensive one so far. It will be invaluable to all NHS provider organisations – provider trusts, commissioning organisations, Arm’s Length Bodies, as well as to the new models of care – the Vanguards and Sustainable and Transformational Plans (STPs) – in understanding the challenges we face on workforce race equality. The WRES continues to prompt inquiry and assist healthcare organisations to develop and implement evidence-based responses to the challenges their data reveal. It assists organisations to meet the aims of the NHS Five Year Forward View and complements other NHS policy frameworks such as Developing People – Improving Care, as well as the principles and values set out in The NHS Constitution